Waldo Police Department, Arkansas
End of Watch Friday, April 16, 1976
Add to My HeroesJohn H. "Sonny" Allen
Patrolmen Sonny Allen and Steven Poetker were killed when their vehicle was struck by a train at an unguarded crossing near Waldo.
The two were returning from the Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy in East Camden, Arkansas. They had just joined their department chief in a chase when the accident occurred. Patrolman Poetker had graduated from the academy at 1:00 pm, and the accident occurred shortly after 2:00 pm. The department only had three officers at the time of their deaths.
Patrolman Allen had served with the Waldo Police Department for one year.
Bio
- Age 27
- Tour 1 year
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Struck by train
Most Recent Reflection
View all 6 ReflectionsUncle you will never be forgotten. I was five years old when you passed and I will always remember you. God Bless.
Rev. Dr. James & LaToya Darrett
February 5, 2019
Recent LODD Deaths

Sergeant Cory Maynard
West Virginia State Police, WV
EOW: June 2, 2023

Corporal Shawn Kelly
Denham Springs Police Department, LA
EOW: June 2, 2023

Corrections Deputy Marcus Zeigler
Hamilton County Sheriff's Office, OH
EOW: May 26, 2023

Police Officer Horren Randy Tyler
Madison Police Department, MS
EOW: June 1, 2023

Deputy Sheriff Caleb Conley
Scott County Sheriff's Office, KY
EOW: May 22, 2023

Sergeant Michael Kunovich
St. Johns County Sheriff's Office, FL
EOW: May 19, 2023

Deputy Sheriff Brett Harris
Riverside County Sheriff's Department, CA
EOW: May 13, 2023

Sergeant Joshua Lee Clouse
Cameron Police Department, TX
EOW: May 11, 2023

Port Police Officer Kimberly Sickafoose
Alabama Port Authority Police, AL
EOW: May 11, 2023